OM SYSTEM Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 45mm F1.8 Black for Micro Four Thirds System Camera, Compact Design, Beautiful Bokeh, Bright
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AI Verdict
This 45mm f/1.8 lens, weighing 4.1 ounces, is a compact Micro Four Thirds prime for sharp portraits with defocused backgrounds.
This 45mm f/1.8 lens is a strong fit for Micro Four Thirds users prioritizing portability and shallow depth of field for portraits. Its 116g weight and 56 x 46mm dimensions make it incredibly easy to carry, and the f/1.8 aperture delivers excellent background blur.
If you need faster autofocus or weather sealing for more demanding scenarios, look for a lens with 'Pro' in its name or a higher-end prime with a more advanced AF motor and sealed construction.
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Pros
- Produces sharp images, even when shooting at its maximum f/1.8 aperture.
- The f/1.8 maximum aperture creates a pleasing background blur with its rounded seven-blade diaphragm.
- Weighs only 116g (4.1 ounces) and measures 56 x 46mm, making it very portable.
- The MSC (Movie-Still-Compatible) autofocus system operates silently, which is beneficial for video recording.
- Its f/1.8 aperture allows for effective shooting in low-light conditions.
Cons
- The lens body is primarily plastic, which some users report feels less premium than metal alternatives.
- Autofocus speed can be slow for both video and still photography, showing its age compared to newer lenses.
- A lens hood is not included in the package, requiring a separate purchase for bright conditions.
- The 0.20M minimum focusing distance limits its utility for close-up or macro photography.
- Lacks weather sealing, which restricts its use in challenging environmental conditions.
Dimension Scores
Users consistently report the lens delivers sharp images, even at its widest f/1.8 aperture, with pleasing background blur.
While silent, the autofocus speed is noted by users as being slow for both video and general photography, especially compared to newer lenses.
The silent MSC autofocus is a plus for video, but the slow focusing speed can be a limitation for dynamic video content.
Weighing only 116g and measuring 56 x 46mm, this lens is exceptionally compact and lightweight for its focal length and aperture.
Best For
- Capturing portraits with a shallow depth of field on Micro Four Thirds cameras.
- Low-light photography where a wide f/1.8 aperture is crucial.
- Street photography or urban shots due to its compact size and 90mm equivalent focal length.
- Budget-conscious photographers seeking a dedicated portrait prime lens.
Not Recommended For
- Macro photography, given its 0.20M minimum focusing distance.
- Action or fast-moving subjects where quick autofocus is paramount.
- Shooting in adverse weather conditions due to the lack of weather sealing.
Watch Out For
- The autofocus can feel sluggish, especially for video, with one user noting it 'shows its edge' in 2025.
- You'll need to buy a separate LH-40B lens hood if you want to mitigate flare in bright light.
- The plastic construction, while contributing to its light 116g weight, might not satisfy users expecting a more robust feel.
- Manual focus uses a focus-by-wire system, which some photographers find less tactile than mechanical focusing rings.
Full Specifications
| ASIN | B00CI3R53W |
| Brand | OM SYSTEM |
| Batteries | 1 Lithium Polymer batteries required. |
| Lens Type | Telephoto |
| Item Weight | 4.1 ounces |
| Manufacturer | Olympus |
| Item model number | V311030BU000 |
| Product Dimensions | 1.81 x 2.2 x 2.2 inches |
| Compatible Mountings | Four Thirds |
| Focal Length Description | 45 mm |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
What Buyers Say
Many users are surprised by the exceptional sharpness and beautiful bokeh this lens delivers, especially considering its compact size and price. While its plastic build is often mentioned, it's generally accepted as a trade-off for its feather-light 116g weight. However, some recent feedback points out that its autofocus speed, particularly for video, feels dated compared to more modern offerings. It's frequently recommended as a must-have for Micro Four Thirds portraiture.
“Dude, this little 45mm is like, seriously sharp for portraits, and the background just melts away, but man, the AF is kinda slow sometimes, especially if my kid is running around. Still, for the price, it's a no-brainer.”
Common Praise
- Images are sharp across the frame, even when shooting wide open at f/1.8.
- The f/1.8 aperture creates a very pleasing, soft background blur.
- Its tiny 116g weight and 56 x 46mm dimensions make it incredibly easy to carry.
- The autofocus motor operates silently, which is great for discreet shooting and video.
- It's a fantastic value for the image quality it provides.
Common Complaints
- The plastic construction feels less premium than other lenses.
- Autofocus can be noticeably slow, especially for video or tracking moving subjects.
- No weather sealing means you have to be careful in damp or dusty environments.
- The lack of an included lens hood is a minor annoyance for many.
Ownership Tips
- You'll quickly appreciate how little space it takes up in your bag, making it a constant companion.
- Learning to work with the 0.20M minimum focusing distance is key; it's not a close-up lens.
- The silent autofocus is genuinely useful for candid shots where you don't want to draw attention.
- You might find yourself stopping down to f/2.2 or f/4 for even sharper results, especially for landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 35mm equivalent focal length of this lens?
On a Micro Four Thirds camera, the 45mm focal length provides a 90mm full-frame equivalent field of view.
Is this lens suitable for low-light photography?
Yes, its maximum f/1.8 aperture allows a significant amount of light to reach the sensor, making it well-suited for low-light shooting.
Does this lens come with a lens hood?
No, the LH-40B lens hood is an optional accessory and is not included with the lens.
Can I use this lens for macro photography?
No, with a minimum focusing distance of 0.20M, this lens is not designed for macro photography.
Is the autofocus quiet for video recording?
Yes, the lens features a Movie-Still-Compatible (MSC) lens drive designed for quick and silent focus during video shooting.
Buying Guide
When you're looking at a prime lens like this, you're trading zoom flexibility for image quality, especially in low light and for background blur. The 45mm focal length on a Micro Four Thirds camera acts like a 90mm lens on a full-frame system, which is a classic for portraits because it gives a flattering perspective without distortion. The f/1.8 aperture is what lets you get those creamy, out-of-focus backgrounds and shoot when it's dim.
Focal Length (45mm / 90mm equivalent)
This number tells you how 'zoomed in' the lens is. 45mm on a Micro Four Thirds camera gives you the same view as a 90mm lens on a standard camera, which is perfect for portraits because it compresses the background slightly and keeps your subject looking natural, without making their nose look too big.
Maximum Aperture (f/1.8)
This is how wide the lens can open up to let in light. A lower f-number like f/1.8 means it can open very wide, letting in a lot of light for shooting in dim conditions without cranking up your camera's ISO. It also creates that blurry background effect (bokeh) that makes your subject pop.
Weight (116g / 4.1 ounces)
This is how heavy the lens is. At just 116g, this lens is super light, which means your camera setup won't feel like a brick around your neck. It's a big deal for carrying it all day or when you want to keep your kit small and discreet.
Alternatives
If this lens doesn't quite fit, consider searching for a prime lens with a wider maximum aperture (e.g., f/1.2 or f/1.4) for even more background blur, or a lens with weather sealing and a more robust build for outdoor use.
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